Craig Chandler University Communication and Marketing
Refining their emergency response system and adapting to the modern technology, University of Nebraska–Lincoln students can now contact campus police via text message.
The UNL Police Department dispatch center incorporated ‘Convey911’ technology at the beginning of the year, which allows those on campus to text 402-472-5552, where they will be connected with a dispatcher who can provide assistance/guidance in both emergency and non-emergency situations.
The cloud-based Convey911 is also able to translate messages in more than 170 languages, and allow users to share their GPS location, photos, and video.
Sara Haake, UNLPD dispatch director, said the new technology increases access to help in two ways.
“We have an international community here, and when you need help or you’re stressed, you are most likely more comfortable using your native language,” Haake said. “We had a gap in serving that population, and we wanted to address it. We also wanted to have a second mode of timely communication. You might have a question or a need and are unsure if calling the police department is the right solution. Now, you can send us a text. I’m hopeful that will encourage more on campus to feel comfortable reaching out to us for assistance.”
Haake began looking at texting technology options a couple years ago after discussions with colleagues near and far about Next Generation 911 — the ongoing implementation across the United States of a digital internet protocol-based system that is replacing the original analog 911 system.
To use this new service, send a text to 402-472-5552. Users will receive an immediate response in the language they texted in. The translation happens in real time through the cloud-based system. Depending on the situation, Haake said dispatchers can ask users to share their GPS location and/or video so the dispatcher can assess and assist.
In an emergency, UNLPD recommends dialing 911. Campus dispatchers can also be reached by calling 402-472-2222, or 2-2222 on campus lines.
For more information, visit police.unl.edu.